Bankruptcy fees depend on the client, the chapter, the complexity of the case, and the work required. Patrick M. Hunter does not treat one price as fitting every case. He explains fees after he understands the client's debts, assets, income, goals, and bankruptcy risks.

Patrick charges for the initial Zoom consultation because the purpose is to provide unbiased and competent legal advice, not to sell a bankruptcy filing. Clients need advice that fits their circumstances before deciding whether to proceed.

Why Fee Quotes Require A Consultation

The scope of work can change dramatically depending on income, business interests, tax debt, secured loans, support obligations, lawsuits, prior filings, non-exempt property, and creditor disputes. For that reason, fees are quoted after Patrick understands what the case requires.

• Simple Cases: A straightforward consumer case may require less work and lower fees.
• Complex Cases: Business income, multiple creditors, tax debt, litigation, or asset issues can require more attorney time.
• Urgent Cases: Garnishment, foreclosure, lawsuits, or repossession risk can affect timing and preparation.

Chapter 7 Payment Limits

Chapter 7 attorney fees generally must be paid before filing. If a firm financed its own Chapter 7 fee, the firm would become a creditor of the client whose claim would be discharged in bankruptcy. That creates both practical and ethical problems.

• Payment Before Filing: Chapter 7 legal fees are ordinarily paid in full before the case is filed.
• Case Quote After Consultation: Fee quotes require an understanding of the client's income, assets, debts, and complexity.
• Affordability Discussions: The firm understands money is tight and works to make representation as affordable as possible within ethical limits.

Chapter 13 Attorney Fees

Chapter 13 fees can sometimes be paid through the payments made in a Chapter 13 plan. If the client can afford to pay fees in advance, the firm may require the portion representing an uncontested Chapter 13 before filing. More complex cases may require an additional retainer before filing, placed into trust for legal work anticipated after the case begins.

Older fee guidance from Patrick's site explained that very simple Chapter 13 cases may run as low as $4,000 in attorney fees, while complex cases involving businesses, different sources of income, numerous creditors, and other issues can require $10,000 or more. Typical Chapter 13 fees were described as often falling in the $4,000 to $5,000 range, but no quote should be treated as final until consultation and scope review are complete.

Chapter 13 Filing Fee And Case Costs

The Chapter 13 filing fee is separate from attorney fees and usually must be paid at filing. In some cases, filing fees may be waived or paid in installments, but if the firm is handling the case it may still require the filing fee up front.

• Credit Counseling: Individual debtors must complete an approved credit-counseling course before filing.
• Debtor Education: A debtor-education course is required after filing before discharge.
• Course Costs: Authorized providers often charge for these classes.
• Plan Service Costs: Chapter 13 plans must be served on creditors, which can create per-creditor service costs.

Payment Options And Third-Party Help

Many clients ask whether family or friends can help pay bankruptcy fees. The firm may accept third-party payments if the person paying understands they are not the client, cannot direct the representation, and may not have a legally enforceable repayment claim after bankruptcy.

• Debit And Electronic Payments: These may be arranged when appropriate.
• Credit Cards: Credit cards are not accepted unless a third party is paying the fee.
• Cash Equivalents: Payment by check, Venmo, Zelle, or similar methods may be discussed.

Schedule A Fee Consultation

If you need bankruptcy advice and want to understand fees, call 307-235-1900 or message the firm online. For common bankruptcy questions, visit the Wyoming Bankruptcy FAQs.

Be ready to discuss the type of bankruptcy you are considering, debts, assets, income, and any urgent collection pressure.

"One price does not fit all. The amount of attorney fees can only be determined when we know more about you."